Generations Healthcare Management Blog | Senior Care Blog

Changes to COVID-19 protocols at Generations Senior Living

Written by Danielle Shaffstall | Aug 25, 2021 11:14:49 AM

One certainty about the COVID-19 virus is that it is always changing. That means our response to the virus must change as well, to keep up with developments while ensuring our staff and residents remain safe.

While COVID restrictions have eased in Ohio and throughout the country, some protocols must remain in place for nursing homes. We’ll explain what you can expect in terms of pandemic safety procedures at Generations Senior Living.

  • Masking is still required, except for fully vaccinated residents and guests alone in private apartments
  • Open visitation has resumed without scheduling restrictions
  • Daily monitoring for symptoms (both residents and staff) will continue

We are happy to announce that we are still accepting new residents, although our move-in procedures have been tailored slightly to accommodate added safety protocols as described by the Centers for Disease Control.

Learn more about these and other protocols we are updating to keep our staff, residents, families, and friends safe as the pandemic continues.

Masking

Masks will still be required for residents and staff, even those who are vaccinated, when together in common areas. Staff will also be wearing additional personal protective equipment (PPE) in some situations.

One exception to the masking protocol is when a group of vaccinated staff members gather together. Another exception is when vaccinated residents entertain a vaccinated guest in a private apartment. In those situations, masks will not be required. Masks are also not required when alone in a private apartment.

These protocols are in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for assisted living facilities.

Testing

Unvaccinated staff are still required to be tested for COVID twice per week.

Should they or anyone else test positive for COVID, we will ensure they begin to receive appropriate medical care right away. We will also notify the health department as well as residents, the rest of the staff, and any other potentially affected parties of the positive case, so they can take appropriate measures.

Visitation

Visitation restrictions ended June 18, 2021. Open visitation is permitted again, although we will continue to screen visitors according to federal guidelines. Visits need not be monitored, either, as that would prevent the resident and their guest from safely removing their masks.

The communities will follow the Ohio Department of Health guidelines for visitation between residents and family members. Outdoor visitation is preferred according to the federal guidance from the CDC, but indoor visitation is permitted as well.

Monitoring

Generations will continue to be diligent and vigilant in monitoring residents and staff for COVID-19 symptoms, including temperature checks and symptom checks.

This allows us to quickly pinpoint infection so we can take appropriate mitigation measures as well as precautions to limit the spread of disease.

Move-ins

New residents are welcome at Generations Senior Living. However, we have adjusted our move-in process to accommodate pandemic considerations. Our staff will follow all relevant COVID-19 protocols before, during, and after your move, to ensure your health and safety as well as that of our staff and other residents.

In addition to guidance from the CDC, we also take protocols from the Ohio Department of Health, the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, and both the Ohio and the American Healthcare Associations.

In fact, two principals of GSL are also board members of the Ohio Healthcare Association. It is from this vantage point that they are able to make recommendations based on practical experience, as well as industry best practices, in the development of policy that will affect our community

Getting through it, together

The Coury Family and the entire Generations community is ready to support you through this challenging time. We strive to keep you updated as recommendations are constantly changing, and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have about COVID-19 safety protocols.

Please contact us whenever you’re seeking answers, and we’ll help explain the latest updates and information to you. We are constantly monitoring the latest developments, not only in the progression of the disease, its treatment, and its prevention, but also in the healthcare industry and government guidance. Trust us to keep you and your loved ones safe as we navigate this pandemic together.